Regular physical activity lowers type 2 diabetes risk by changing the body's metabolite profile

From news-medical.net

Regular physical activity significantly changes the body's metabolite profile, and many of these changes are associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes, a new study from the University of Eastern Finland shows.

The study population included more than 7,000 men who were followed up for eight years. Men in the highest physical activity category had a 39% lower risk of type 2 diabetes than men who were physically inactive. Physical activity was associated with the levels of a total of 198 metabolites, i.e., compounds formed as a result of the body's metabolism, and increased physical activity had an impact on some of the same metabolites that have previously been associated with a health-promoting diet. In addition, the study showed that increased physical activity improves insulin secretion.

A total of 1,260 metabolites were analysed from the study participants' fasting glucose samples. The association of physical activity with the metabolite profile hasn't been studied this comprehensively nor in such an extensive cohort before. Indeed, published in Metabolites, this study is the first to establish an association between many metabolites and physical activity.

The researchers investigated the association of physical activity with metabolite profile, insulin sensitivity, insulin secretion and risk of type 2 diabetes in men participating in the METabolic Syndrome In Men (METSIM) study. None of the participants had diabetes at the onset of the study. A physical activity questionnaire was conducted among the participants at the onset of the study and again eight years later, and they also underwent an oral glucose tolerance test and had their metabolites analysed from a fasting glucose sample.

Men were classified into four categories based on their physical activity: those who were physically inactive, those who were physically active only occasionally, those who were physically active regularly but no more than twice a week, and those who were physically active regularly at least three times a week. The duration of a single session of physical activity was defined as at least 30 minutes.

Physical activity was associated with the levels of a total of 198 metabolites. Among other things, physical activity changed the levels of several lipids in a manner that in previous studies has been associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes. In previous studies, a health-promoting diet has also been observed to have some similar associations with unsaturated fatty acid levels, for example. As completely new metabolic biomarkers associated with physical activity, the researchers identified in particular steroids, amino acids, imidazoles, carboxylic acids, and hydroxy acids.

During the follow-up, the risk of developing type 2 diabetes was 39% lower for men who were physically the most active, and 30% lower even for men who were physically active no more than twice a week, when compared to men who were physically inactive. Lower fasting glucose and insulin levels, and better insulin sensitivity and insulin secretion, were observed in men who increased their physical activity during the follow-up.

The association of physical activity with insulin secretion has remained unclear, despite several studies on the matter. The study published now confirms that increased physical activity improves insulin secretion.

https://www.news-medical.net/news/20220126/Regular-physical-activity-lowers-type-2-diabetes-risk-by-changing-the-bodys-metabolite-profile.aspx 

Type 1 diabetes symptoms: The 2 changes in your mouth that could be sign of condition

From express.co.uk

TYPE 1 diabetes causes blood sugar levels to become too high and can cause severe damage to the body if left untreated. Blood tests are the best way to diagnose suspected diabetes, but there are a few unusual symptoms that could be an early warning sign.

Type 1 diabetes accounts for about eight percent of all diabetes diagnoses in the UK. Symptoms of type 1 diabetes are largely physical and can affect everything from eyesight to toilet habits. Oral side effects are not uncommon for those living with type 1 diabetes, however, and there is one key sign in your mouth that could indicate this dangerous disease.

What are the main symptoms of type 1 diabetes?

Diabetes is a progressive illness that can cause symptoms to worsen over time.

Early symptoms can vary across individual cases, but there are a handful of key signs which are frequently experienced by type 1 diabetics.

According to the NHS, the most common symptoms of type 1 diabetes include:

• Feeling very thirsty
• Peeing more than usual, particularly at night
• Feeling very tired
• Losing weight without trying
• Thrush that keeps coming back
• Blurred vision
• Cuts and grazes that are not healing

                   Type 1 diabetes symptoms: The change in your mouth that could be warning sign (Image: GETTY)

Fruity-smelling breath and/or a dry mouth are other well-known symptoms associated with type 1 diabetes, but what is it that causes this unusual side effect?

Why is dry mouth a sign of diabetes?

People with diabetes may experience a dry mouth as high blood sugar levels can result in a decrease in saliva flow.

It is important to get a dry mouth checked if it is a reoccurring issue, as it can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.

Some medications used to treat diabetes can also result in a dry mouth as a side effect, however.

Why is fruity-smelling breath a symptom of diabetes?

When the body is unable to use insulin as an energy source, it breaks down fat cells instead.

Not only can this cause unintended weight loss, but it is also responsible for the fruit-scented breath commonly associated with type 1 diabetics.

When fat cells are used for energy, the process produces an acid known as ketones.

Ketones found in the bloodstream are usually discarded through urine, but they can make themselves known when this fails to take place.

Medically accredited website Healthline says: “When the body starts breaking down fat for energy, the effect is fruity-smelling breath or breath that smells like acetone, or nail polish.”

Officially known as halitosis, a foul, sweet or fruity odour on your breath could signal an acute complication of diabetes.
High levels of ketones in the blood are not the only cause of this unusual symptom.

Periodontal disease is another known trigger of fruity-breath in type 1 diabetics and is caused by reduced blood flow to the gums.

Raised glucose levels can also promote bacteria growth, infection and bad breath which could also be to blame for oddly-scented breath.

Any unexplained changes to the scent of your breath should always be raised with a medical professional to rule out the possibility of diabetes.

          Type 1 diabetes symptoms: Daily insulin is the only way for type 1 diabetics to control glucose (Image: GETTY)

How to manage bad breath from diabetes

While type 1 diabetes can’t be prevented, there are a number of remedies to manage unpleasant symptoms triggered by this autoimmune disease.

Warding off the risk of diabetes-induced gum disease can be done with a few simple habits, including:

• Brushing your teeth twice a day
• Flossing daily
• Brushing your tongue
• Drinking plenty of water to keep your mouth moist
• Keeping blood sugar levels in their target range
• Using sugar-free mints or gum to stimulate saliva
• Keeping on top of dental checks and treatments
• Taking good care of dentures and always removing them at night
• Quitting or avoiding smoking

https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/1554304/Type-1-diabetes-symptoms-smell-breathedry-mouth-warning-sign-evg

 

All-in-one diabetes devices could take the hassle out of insulin injections

From engadget.com

Neither has been tested on humans yet 

People with diabetes have more than a few hassles, particularly at meals. They not only have to measure their blood glucose levels and inject the right amount of insulin, but carry all the relevant equipment with them. MIT and Brigham and Women's Hospital researchers might soon eliminate many of the headaches, though. They're developing all-in-one devices (not pictured) that measure glucose, calculate the necessary insulin dose and inject you accordingly.

The first device includes the blood-drawing lancet, glucose test strips and an insulin needle. Users would first take a photo of their meal using a smartphone app to estimate the food volume and carbohydrate levels. After that, they'd start the automated process of collecting blood, calculating glucose (again through the app) and delivering the appropriate amount of insulin.

JGalione via Getty Images

The second gadget would only need one needle jab — it would build the glucose sensor into the insulin needle and inject the appropriate amount of insulin. You'd have to wait five to ten seconds, but you wouldn't have to stick yourself twice.

The technology is still some ways off. While the first device would use parts that were already FDA-approved, it hasn't been tested in humans. The second, meanwhile, uses a new sensor type that will likely require more work to be testable with humans. Scientists have filed patents for both devices and are hoping to work with companies on further development.

There's a strong motivation to bring these devices to market, at least. People with diabetes would only need to use one device at meals, and with the hybrid sensor/needle might suffer less pain. That, in turn, could encourage consistent treatment that improves your overall wellbeing.

https://www.engadget.com/mit-diabetes-device-blood-glucose-insulin-injection-205524756.html

Tips for Thriving With Diabetes

From samhealth.org

Whether you have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, managing it can seem overwhelming at times. It’s important to know that diabetes affects everyone differently and it’s best to work with your health care team to develop a personalized plan.

“The first step in managing diabetes is understanding your blood glucose readings,” said Angie Frederic, registered dietitian nutritionist and manager of Diabetes and Nutrition Education at Samaritan Lebanon Community Hospital. “By testing your blood glucose, you can make informed decisions about any changes that might need to be made to ensure healthy diabetes management.”

Here are some additional tips for keeping your diabetes under control.

• Monitor your blood sugar daily to help stay on track.
• Take a diabetes class or work with a diabetes educator.
• Stay active by taking a 30-minute walk every day.
• Understand your medication and talk to your doctor when you have questions.
• Know what makes your blood sugar go up or down.
• Eat regular, well-balanced meals. Visit myplate.gov to learn what foods should fill your plate.
• Find ways to reduce stress.
• Get plenty of quality sleep each night.
• Be patient with yourself.

“Diabetes management can change over time and what you have been doing sometimes needs to be adjusted,” said Frederic. “It is easy to get burnt out. Making small adjustments in your diet or routine can help you feel more successful.”

One last tip: Focus on what you can eat instead of what you can’t. And enjoy it!

https://www.samhealth.org/about-samaritan/news-search/2022/01/20/tips-for-thriving-with-diabetes 

Do you have diabetes? This is the best time to have fruits

From hindustantimes.com

• Is there a right time to eat fruits for people with diabetes? A nutritionist opens up

People with diabetes often struggle to make the right food choices. Picking foods that do not play havoc with their blood glucose levels is essential for diabetes management. Foods with low GI (glycaemic index) are recommended to keep sugar levels in check. Green leafy vegetables, legumes, dairy and nuts are examples of such foods.

Does this mean that diabetics should skip fruits? While fruits have loads of nutrients and fibre but they can also cause a spike in your blood sugar levels if you over eat them.

The best approach is to follow some rules when it comes to consuming fruits and reap maximum health benefits.

"Be smart about your fruit choices and make sure you follow these basic rules," says nutritionist Rashi Chowdhary.

Should people with diabetes eat fruits? The best approach is to follow some rules when it comes to consuming fruits and reap maximum health benefits.(Pixabay)

The best fruits for people with diabetes

Some of the best fruits for people with diabetes are apples, avocados, blackberries, cherries, grapefruit, peaches, pears, plums or strawberries. These are low-sugar fruits with glycaemic load mostly at 6, as per Chowdhary.

One should avoid fruits like banana, chiku, mango, fruit juices and grapes if suffering from the metabolic disorder.

Best time to have fruits for people with diabetes

Our metabolic activity differs at each time of the day and having fruits when your body's digestive fire is high could help in case of diabetics.

"Try and have fruit between 1-4 pm when your body’s digestive fire is at their highest," says Chowdhary.

The nutritionist also says that having a fruit before or after workout is a good time as that is when our body can use up the extra carbs quickly.

Benefits of fruits for diabetics

Fruits are rich in fibre and vitamins which are essential for people with diabetes.

"Fibre plays an important role in slowing down the absorption of sugar and controlling its levels. So, it is advised to have a whole fruit instead of juice so that vitamin and fibre are not lost," says Shruti Bharadwaj, Senior Clinical Dietician, Narayana Hrudayalaya Multispeciality Hospital Ahmedabad.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/do-you-have-diabetes-this-is-the-best-time-to-have-fruits-101642497272436.html

 

Diabetes: The simple test you can do with your hands that may help identify the condition

From timesnewsexpress.com

In May last year, the charity Diabetes UK released new analysis showing that the number of people diagnosed with diabetes in the UK had doubled in 15 years. Their data showed that as of May 2021 “over 4.9 million people are currently living with diabetes in the UK”. Diabetes UK says 90 percent of people living with diabetes in the UK are living with type 2 diabetes. As a result of the high number of people with diabetes in the UK, there are a lot of resources and information available about symptoms and treatments.

One of these symptoms may be in your hand. It is known as diabetic hand syndrome.

Diabetic hand syndrome is a condition where the skin on the hands thickens and becomes “waxy”, says The Mayo Clinic.

The symptom of diabetic hand syndrome is that “you may be unable to fully extend your fingers or press your palms together flat”.

These aren’t the only symptoms of diabetes of course.

On their website, the NHS lists seven symptoms of Type 2 diabetes.

These include peeing more than usual, particularly at night, feeling thirsty all the time, feeling very tired and losing weight without trying to.

Furthermore, blurred vision, itching around your penis or vagina, or repeatedly getting thrush alongside cuts or wounds taking longer to heal are also symptoms of type 2 diabetes listed by the health service.

DON’T MISS

As with other medicines, there can be side effects.

Not everyone experiences side effects; if you experience them, it is recommended you stop taking them.

A healthy and balanced diet can also help you manage your blood sugar level in conjunction with your diabetes medicine.

Importantly, if you have any concerns about diabetes or any other condition, don’t hesitate to contact your GP.

https://timesnewsexpress.com/news/health/diabetes-the-simple-test-you-can-do-with-your-hands-that-may-help-identify-the-condition/ 

Diabetes: Doctor shares worst breakfast choices for blood sugar control

From express.co.uk

MORE than 4.9 million people live with diabetes in the UK, with 90 percent of those suffering from type 2 diabetes. If you want to effectively manage blood sugars, which breakfast choices should you limit?

Diabetes expert, Dr Sarah Brewer, advises to "cut back on foods that contain rapidly digested carbohydrates" that would cause spikes in blood sugar (i.e. glucose). Examples include pastries, cornflakes, and white bread, which can increase your body's insulin needs. "If you are also overweight, this may lead to poor glucose control," Dr Brewer cautioned.

To be on the safer side, Dr Brewer recommends "following a low glycaemic index diet".

Diabetes: The worst breakfasts revealed (Image: Getty)

What is the glycaemic index?

The NHS explained: "The glycaemic index (GI) is a rating system for foods containing carbohydrates. It shows how quickly each food affects your blood sugar (glucose) level when that food is eaten on its own."

High glycaemic foods are broken down quickly by the body, causing a rapid increase in blood sugar.

High GI foods to limit include:

• Sugar and sugary foods
• Sugary soft drinks
• White bread
• Potatoes
• White rice.

Low and medium GI foods are broken down more slowly by the body, leading to a "gradual rise" in blood sugar levels. Examples include:

• Some fruit and vegetables
• Pulses
• Wholegrain foods, such as porridge oats.

While low GI foods can be part of a healthy diet, not all foods with a low GI are healthy.

Healthy low GI options include: wholegrain foods, fruit, vegetables, beans, and lentils.

However, unhealthy low GI options include chocolate and crisps, which can be high in fat.

"Relying on GI alone is not a reliable way to decide whether foods or combinations of foods are healthy," said the NHS.

Moreover, research shows that it is the amount of carbohydrates eaten, rather than its GI rating alone that has the "biggest influence on blood glucose levels after meals".

This is why Dr Brewer also suggests to "lose some excess weight" by watching portion sizes. Dr Brewer elaborated: "When you are overweight, fat builds up in your liver. [This causes] it to produce too much glucose even if you are already obtaining too much in your diet.

"Excess fat also spills over from your liver to your pancreas where it accumulates and switches off the genes that regulate insulin production, and this is now believed to trigger type 2 diabetes."

Overweight men are seven times more likely to develop diabetes, whereas obese women are 27 times more likely to develop the condition.

Losing excess fat can "greatly improve your insulin production" and the body's cells to respond better to insulin.

As such, by losing excess weight, a person's blood glucose control tends to improve.

To help aid weight loss, "exercise is key" as it stimulate a person's metabolism.

Dr Sarah Brewer is working in association with CuraLin, a natural diabetes supplement.

https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/1550706/diabetes-diet-high-blood-sugar-glycemic-index 

Study finds COVID-19 may increase risk of diabetes in kids: 3 things for parents to know

From news.yahoo.com

Kids who have recovered from COVID-19 may have an increased risk of developing diabetes, according to a new study from the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.

The study, which looked at databases with information for over 2.5 million patients under 18, found that children diagnosed with COVID-19 were about 2.5 times more likely to receive a new diabetes diagnosis a month or more after infection.

The health care data, taken from the first full year of the coronavirus pandemic, showed that other, non-COVID-related infections were not found to be associated with increased risk of diabetes diagnosis, leading researchers to look for reasons for this possible link between COVID and diabetes diagnoses.

A possible link between COVID-19 and an increased risk of diabetes has also been found in adults. In June, two studies were released that showed the virus’s ability to infect pancreatic beta cells, decrease insulin secretion and effectively yield Type 1 diabetes.

In Type 1 diabetes, the body completely stops making insulin, requiring daily insulin injections, via shots or an insulin pump, to stay alive.

In Type 2 diabetes, the body continues to make insulin but develops insulin resistance, meaning the cells do not respond to insulin correctly.

The CDC's new study on children ages 18 and under, released Friday, included cases of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes in its analysis.

The new concern for kids comes as the United States continues to see its most significant COVID-19 infection surge yet, which is heavily impacting children.

Last week alone, 580,000 children tested positive for COVID-19, nearly three times more than two weeks prior, according to a weekly report from the American Academy of Paediatrics and the Children’s Hospital Association.

Here are three things for parents to know about kids, COVID-19 and diabetes.

1. Not all kids with COVID will get diabetes.

Sanjoy Dutta, Ph.D., vice president of research for the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, a non-profit organization focused on Type 1 diabetes research and advocacy, said parents should be aware that the new research shows an association between COVID-19 and diabetes, but does not identify how the virus could or whether it actually does increase the risk of diabetes in kids.

"I would not necessarily go about raising the alarm bell right now that it is increasing Type 1 diabetes," said Dutta. "There is no mechanism yet to suggest that it is doing it or how it is doing it."

The study did not include information about who may have had pre-existing conditions that could lead to diabetes and did not include laboratory data confirming the new diagnoses.

The study also did not include people without commercial health insurance, which excludes over one-third of children in the U.S.

2. Getting vaccinated remains important.

The study's findings highlight the importance of getting vaccinated against COVID-19, according to the CDC. 

Currently, all children ages 5 and older are eligible to receive the Pfizer vaccine. Children ages 12 and older, and certain immunocompromised children ages 5 to 11, are also now eligible to receive a third dose of the Pfizer vaccine.

Paediatricians say the safety of the vaccine is far more proven than the uncertainty of potential complications from COVID-19 for kids.

"We have never had a vaccine that we've ever given, going back 100 years, that long-term suddenly something showed up that didn't show up within the first two to three or four months," Dr. Stanley Spinner, chief medical officer and vice president of Texas Children's Paediatrics and Texas Children's Urgent Care, told ABC News earlier this month. "So we are very comfortable about the safety long-term of these vaccines."

"What we don't know is what the long-term effects of COVID can be to kids, even when they get over it now," he continued. "Parents need to know that if your child gets COVID and seems to be OK with it, great, but what's going to happen maybe six months or a year or five years down the road, because we definitely don't know."

3. There are warning signs of diabetes to look for.

The CDC is urging parents, paediatricians and caregivers to be aware of the warning signs of diabetes.

Symptoms of diabetes include thirst, hunger, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, blurry vision and fatigue, according to the CDC. 

Dutta added that parents should watch for unusual behaviour patterns in their kids.

"Any unusual pattern of change in behaviour in a short window of time is what I would look out for as a sign of needing to consult a doctor," he said. "It's not intentional, but it's very easy to overlook some of the signs of a disease."

Concerned parents should contact their child's medical provider, or in the case of an emergency, seek immediate help. A delay in diagnosis can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis, a serious complication of diabetes that can be life-threatening, according to Dutta.

A diabetes diagnosis can typically be made through a blood test.

https://news.yahoo.com/study-finds-covid-19-may-211104837.html 

Facts about diabetes and COVID-19 vaccination

From healio.com

Susan Weiner

Stephen W. Ponder

Susan Weiner, MS, RDN, CDCES, FADCES, talks with Stephen W. Ponder, MD, FAAP, CDCES, about the effects of COVID-19 infection and vaccination for people with diabetes.

Weiner: We know people with diabetes are at higher risk for severe illness with COVID-19. Can they lower their diabetes-related risk?

Ponder: The same steps used by others to reduce the risk of COVID infection applies to persons with diabetes — even more so. The basics: Masking, social distancing, avoiding large crowds and frequent hand-washing are vital to lowering risk for infection. A medical mask or N95 quality mask is more useful than a cloth mask if someone must go into risky areas. But keep in mind that friends and family members can also transmit the infection. Around our inner circle, there is always a greater tendency to let our guard down.

Isolation and hygiene measures, while essential, are not enough. Immunization with either the Moderna or the Pfizer vaccine, plus a later booster, provides the best proven method to lower risks for serious illness or death from COVID-19. Getting boosted with the non-original vaccine brand is a clever idea.

Working to get the best achievable blood glucose profile is associated with greater resiliency against any infection, COVID included. That means lowering HbA1c toward the goal set by the person with diabetes and the diabetes provider or team. If someone is overweight or obese, their risk is higher for serious effects from a COVID infection. If someone smokes or vapes, their risk is also higher. This is a good reason to resolve to make lifestyle changes that would help in all those areas.

Persons with diabetes are at elevated risk for death and serious illness from COVID-19. The need to take protective measures listed above is still important. Although spared from the worst outcomes, someone taking precautions can still get infected and spread the infection — even unknowingly — to others.

Persons with diabetes share many of the same risk factors as persons without diabetes: overweight or obesity, other chronic illnesses, poor health habits, etc. While many of these behaviours cannot be changed overnight, they will add to the risk one carries with a COVID infection, vaccinated or not.

Health care professionals can lead by example and share their experience for people with diabetes who are reluctant to get a COVID-19 vaccine

Weiner: Do COVID vaccines affect blood glucose levels?

Ponder: The metabolic response a person has to any vaccine is an individual one. This is the same with COVID vaccines. Aside from a sore arm, the signs and symptoms are the same as with other vaccines and can range from nothing at all to fatigue, malaise, headache, gastrointestinal upset, low-grade fever and body aches. As with any other vaccine, the impact on blood glucose levels may be none to minimal to large. In most instances, it is more likely to be minimal.

In my case, there were no measurable effects on my blood glucose profiles after any of the COVID vaccines I received. I have also received influenza, shingles, pneumonia, hepatitis and tetanus vaccines as an adult and experienced no issues with my blood sugar after any of them either. Nevertheless, it is possible the immune response to any vaccine could influence one’s blood glucose. Therefore, I recommend careful attention to blood glucose levels after any vaccine, COVID or otherwise. Someone who experiences unexpected blood glucose changes should remember to employ their basic diabetes skills — correction doses of carbs or insulin — to manage them effectively.

Weiner: How do you discuss COVID vaccines with someone who may be reluctant to get one?

Ponder: Leading by example is one way to passively encourage others. If asked, I am happy to share that I was early to get my vaccine series, plus my later booster. As mentioned above: I experienced no serious adverse effects at all. I also have many patients and their parents who share their experiences with me that they did not have adverse reactions. For those who did have reactions, they were mild and quickly passed.

Unfortunately, leading by example does not directly address the widespread misinformation regarding COVID vaccines. The internet is the best place to find answers to questions that best suit our biases. Combined with some fancy talk and big technical words, health disinformation sites are ideally suited to confuse and sow doubt in the minds of good people. Such sites also aim to drive a wedge of distrust and suspicion regarding advice from reputable sources. COVID has highlighted this dark side of social media and the internet regarding its impact on our unity as a people.

In these cases, I realise there is little more I can do than provide support should it be necessary later. People must choose for themselves. Parents must also choose for their children. Frankly, there are no patients in my practice who follow every piece of preventive advice or recommendation given by me — or any other health care professional for that matter. Recommendations about COVID vaccines are no different in that regard, and I must live with that. It saddens me when I hear of serious illness or even death befalling someone who chose not to receive vaccines they were eligible for.

Weiner: What other advice do you give people with diabetes regarding COVID-19 infection or vaccination?

Ponder: The greatest medical advancements of the 20th century were the creation of antibiotics and vaccines. This saved countless lives globally for more than a century and continues to do so each day. Sadly, this is taken for granted in many areas of the world, especially in the U.S. Infectious diseases, regardless of their origins, are part of our collective past, present and future.

Most people with diabetes are dominating or living productive lives with a disease that was uniformly fatal before the 20th century. Success over diabetes is possible due to science and good sense to leverage every available tool with prudent and proactive decisions made each day. If you fall ill to COVID, the science behind its management improves daily. Vaccines unequivocally blunt COVID’s impact on us. Oral FDA-approved medications are now available to keep early COVID from overwhelming the body. As a person with diabetes, take these facts into account as you make your own choices regarding COVID-19 prevention and management.

For more information:

Stephen W. Ponder, MD, FAAP, CDCES, is a paediatric endocrinologist at Baylor Scott & White Health in Texas, and author of Sugar Surfing. He has lived with diabetes for more than 50 years. He can be reached at admin@sugarsurfing.com; Twitter: @StephenPonderMD.

Susan Weiner, MS, RDN, CDN, CDCES, FADCES, is co-author of The Complete Diabetes Organizer and Diabetes: 365 Tips for Living Well. She is the owner of Susan Weiner Nutrition PLLC and is the Endocrine Today Diabetes in Real Life column editor. She can be reached at susan@susanweinernutrition.com; Twitter: @susangweiner.

https://www.healio.com/news/endocrinology/20220104/facts-about-diabetes-and-covid19-vaccination?utm_source=selligent&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=news&M_BT=6459271603417 

Diabetes: The small sweet food that may help blood sugar control and prevent the condition

From express.co.uk

DIABETES is a chronic condition in which your blood sugar levels become too high. That's why one of the most important aspects of diabetes is blood sugar control. There's a small food, which may help this management and even prevent type 2 diabetes, according to research.

Diabetes occurs when your body has issues with producing a hormone called insulin. In patients with the condition, the insulin is either not effective, there’s not enough of it or there’s none at all. And insulin is what allows the sugar in your blood to enter other cells in your body.

Diabetes is a common condition, currently affecting almost five million people in the UK. This number is set to rise even further by 2030, reaching one in 10 people. Luckily, diabetes can be managed through simple dietary modifications. And type 2 of this condition can even be prevented in some cases.

The food which may be able to prevent type 2 diabetes and help manage blood sugar is blueberries. The blue little fruit can be bought for as little as 89p. According to a study published in the journal Nutrients, this cheap food can help your body manage blood sugar in a few different ways.

Diabetes: Blueberries may help blood sugar control and prevent the condition. (Image: GETTY)

One group of study participants had to eat blueberries and a slice of white bread, which is a source of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are then broken down into glucose in the body.

Another group had to eat 150 grams of blueberries daily for a period of six days, which was followed by having bread on the seventh day. 

Apart from the bread and blueberry combo, the last group of participants only had a slice of bread without any blueberries. 

All of these groups had their blood taken. And just 15 minutes after eating, the group which had bread with a side of blueberries at the same time saw lower blood sugar spikes. These results suggest that blueberries can help your body manage blood sugar after eating simple carbohydrates.

The researchers think this might be down to what happens in your digestive tract after you eat blueberries.

The study also found that those who ate blueberries for six days had lower insulin levels two hours after eating the bread. This might mean that eating blueberries daily could improve insulin sensitivity, the study reports.

Another study, published in the British Medical Journal, found that blueberries can even slash the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Blueberries can even slash the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. (Image: GETTY)

The study looked at more than 60,000 women and 30,000 men from different studies. Analysing this data, the research identified weakly whole fruit consumption as a lower risk of type 2 diabetes. Blueberries were one of the fruits to achieve the best results.

This means that introducing the small sweet fruit into your diet may help lower your risk of diabetes and help control blood sugar.

https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/1547176/diabetes-diet-blueberries-blood-sugar-control-prevention 

Ask the Doctors | First person seemingly cured of Type 1 diabetes

From times-standard.com

Dear Doctors: As someone who was born with Type 1 diabetes, I’m very interested in any new advances that make it easier to live with this disease. I’ve recently heard on the news that someone has actually been cured. Is that possible? Is there going to be a treatment soon?

Dear Reader: You’re referring to the release of preliminary data from a clinical trial that is testing a potential cure for Type 1 diabetes. The trial is quite small — just 17 participants — and the initial result concerns only one person. However, the outcome is so remarkable, it’s making international news. According to the Massachusetts-based pharmaceutical company conducting the trial, the first participant has not only decreased his daily insulin use by 91%, but for the first time in his life, his body is producing insulin in response to blood sugar fluctuation.

For those who are not familiar with Type 1 diabetes, it’s an autoimmune disease. This occurs when the immune system malfunctions and mistakenly attacks and damages the body’s own tissues. In Type 1 diabetes, certain white blood cells attack and destroy the clusters of specialized cells in the pancreas known as islets, which produce insulin. Without insulin, the cells of the body can’t access blood sugar, which is one of the products of digestion. Not only does this leave cells without their main source of energy, but it results in an uncontrolled build-up of glucose in the blood, which is extremely dangerous.

Keeping blood sugar within a healthful range when you have Type 1 diabetes requires constant testing, daily insulin and a carefully controlled diet. Even so, people living with the disease are at increased risk of a range of adverse health effects, including heart attack, stroke and nerve impairment. The disease is the leading cause of blindness and kidney failure in the United States.

The only known cure for Type 1 diabetes is either a pancreas transplant or a transplant of the specialized pancreatic cells that produce insulin. But with a shortage of available organs and 1.6 million people in the U.S. living with the disease, a cure for the vast majority is not possible. That’s what makes the positive results in this clinical trial such big news. The first participant, who is 64, has been living with Type 1 diabetes for nearly 50 years. His disease is so severe, he regularly experienced sudden drops in blood sugar that caused him to lose consciousness. A few days after receiving an infusion of stem cells that have been “taught” how to behave like islets, everything changed. His blood sugar readings were in the normal range. Even after eating a meal, which requires the body to secrete insulin in order to manage blood glucose, his readings remained perfect.

If this first participant continues to respond to ongoing treatment, his will be the first-ever functional cure of diabetes. It’s a thrilling — but also very early — result. There are 16 more participants in the clinical trial, and five years left to go. Whether or not the man continues to respond to treatment, and whether or not the results can be duplicated in other patients, remains to be seen.

Eve Glazier, M.D., MBA, is an internist and associate professor of medicine at UCLA Health. Elizabeth Ko, M.D., is an internist and assistant professor of medicine at UCLA Health. Send your questions to askthedoctors@mednet.ucla.edu, or write: Ask the Doctors, c/o UCLA Health Sciences Media Relations, 10960 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1955, Los Angeles, CA, 90024. Owing to the volume of mail, personal replies cannot be provided.

https://www.times-standard.com/2022/01/07/ask-the-doctors-first-person-seemingly-cured-of-type-1-diabetes/

Diet For Diabetes: Food to Eat During Winters if You Are a Diabetic Patient

From india.com

Diet For Diabetes: Winter food items for diabetic patients: Top easy to cook food items for those struggling with diabetes during winters

Diet for Diabetes: Isn’t winter the best time of the year? This season brings with its pleasant weather, no humidity no sweating, cosy atmosphere, fresh crisp air, availability of a variety of fresh foods, vacation time and much more. And while all this is great, it can also bring with it some not so nice tidings especially, for those diagnosed with diabetes. The fact is, changing seasons and the accompanying changes in weather do affect blood sugar levels, whether it’s the summers, monsoons or winters.

Varying temperatures can affect blood sugar. Extremes of both cold and hot weather can impact the body’s ability to produce and use insulin in a negative way. And our aim should be to not allow the environment to have the upper hand.

It is common to feel hungrier especially, for diabetics at this time of the year as cold weather speeds up our metabolism. The colder weather causes a drop in our body temperatures, which means our appetites get stimulated as a result. This is because having food helps generate internal heat, subsequently leading to a rise in body temperature.

During winter, the body works harder and uses more energy to keep us warm and the desire to eat more comes from the body’s natural increase in energy expended. However, this cannot be an excuse to overeat!

By consuming and avoiding certain foods with the onset of winter, one can effectively manage to keep a check on blood sugar levels. Through consistent studies, ‘Freedom From Diabetes’ has identified various healthy consumption options in winter.

List of food items to eat during winter if you are struggling with diabetes:

• Vegetable soups in the evening just before dinner made from tomatoes, bottle gourd, peas, mixed vegetables, and mushrooms
• Thai soup
• Lentil soup
• Mulligatawny soup
• Vegetable stew
• Quinoa stew (only for lunch & dinner)
• Barley soup (lunch or dinner)
• Vegan kadhi
• Steamed or parboiled sprout chat – in the morning as breakfast or with dinner
• Steamed or grilled salads
• Stir-fried vegetables
• Laddu made from nuts, seeds and dates
• Herbal teas and infusions made from lemongrass, peppercorns, ginger, cinnamon, cardamom
• Hurda (fresh jowar roasted) with salad (once a week) in lunch
• Warm fresh chana or hara-bhara salad
• Things made from til (sesame)
• Bajra (Only in lunch or dinner)
• 
  
• To summarise, for cold winters steamed or parboiled sprout chat in the morning for breakfast or with dinner can be really refreshing. Especially, for winters, salads can be had in steamed or grilled preparations. Stir-fried vegetables too are a great choice. The soups mentioned above are a great option for taking care of the evening cravings. Tea can be replaced with herbal teas and infusions made from lemongrass, peppercorns, ginger, cinnamon, cardamom. These are not only healthy but tasty too.
• https://www.india.com/health/foods-to-eat-during-winters-if-you-are-a-diabetic-patient-winter-superfoods-for-those-with-diabetes-5169625/